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There is little doubt in the minds of most local young professionals that Des Moines is the place to be.

This, after all, was the place ranked as the No. 1 City for Young Professionals by Forbes magazine in 2014. Our unemployment rate is lower than the national average. Our cost of living is lower, and our paychecks go a lot farther. On top of that, the city has seen remarkable growth in the 20-34 age range — 16.9 percent from 2006 to 2013, according to U.S. Census data. That significantly outpaces the national rate of 7.3 percent. 

So, young professionals are here. Now what?

Now it’s time to help them thrive, both professionally and personally. 

Because being a young professional can be challenging. We’re at a point in our lives where we want it all — a successful career, a web of mentors, the ability to change the world through our philanthropic activities. Yet we don’t have the experience needed to effortlessly achieve these things — not without some trial, error and a lot of uncertainty. We wonder what skills we need to get that big promotion. Why did someone else get the big promotion? What traits are holding us back? How exactly do you network? Is it even worth our time? 

And if we should accomplish these things, how do we manage employees twice our age? How do we get them to take us seriously? How do we continue developing as leaders?

Better yet, who will answer these questions?

That’s where the Business Record comes in. We’re always looking for ways to capitalize on the abundant knowledge and experience of our more than 600 Forty Under 40 honorees, all of whom were — or still are — young professionals when they received the honor. They’ve been in the shoes of today’s YPs, trying to climb their own career ladder, be noticed and learn to be successful in a sea of others trying to do the same.

So we asked for the advice of 25 Forty Under 40 honorees — from the most recent members of the 2015 class to members of the inaugural class of 2000.

Here is the result — 10 questions and 40 pieces of advice given specifically to help Greater Des Moines young professionals succeed. 

Q1: What character traits should any YP develop to get ahead?

Q2: What is preventing young leaders from advancing?

Q3: Which character traits hold YPs back?

Q4: What’s one piece of advice you can give to other young leaders?

Q5: Is appearance really that important? Any tips?

Q6: How do you maintain a personal/professional life balance?

Q7: What is some advice to create valuable relationships?

Q8: What advice did you receive that you still follow today?

Q9: What steps are you taking to ensure you continue to grow?

Q10: What do you wish you knew at the start of your career?

If there is one final thing you could say to today’s young professionals, what would it be?

Q1: What character traits, habits or behaviors should any YP develop to get ahead in their professional life? Explain why.

“Any YP looking to develop a skill set to get ahead in their professional career must recognize that the cornerstone for success boils down to one thing: Do what you say you are going to do, when you say you are going to do it. Success is defined by your track record and how others view your ability to execute. If your reputation is built around this defining characteristic, you are immediately one of the most valuable team members at the table. Your boss will recognize your follow-through, and your colleagues will know that they don’t need to micromanage your assigned tasks.”
Lawrence Cunningham, general manager, Iowa State Daily Media Group, Class of 2013

“Self-awareness. It is easier said than done, but being able to accurately assess your interactions and work through the lens of your colleagues is invaluable. While not always comfortable, understanding others’ perceptions can position any professional for success.”
Jonathan Brendemuehl, corporate communications manager, Bankers Trust Co., Class of 2013

“Get comfortable being uncomfortable. Being new to a career, this situation will likely happen more than once. Comfort is the space of predictability, safety, etc. When stepping out on a limb, challenging the status quo, or setting new rules, each of these situations will not come without discomfort. It is important to remember that each of these experiences is an important step in your development and professional growth. Also, embrace change. Just as technology feels like it advances and changes overnight, so will the professional world. The more one can embrace change in the workplace, the more successful they will be.”
Lindsay Moser, campus and talent sourcing manager, Principal Financial Group Inc., Class of 2015

Q2: What is the biggest challenge preventing young leaders from advancing today? Why?

“Experience, and not experience because of age or tenure, although sometimes that might be a factor. Mostly, experience tied to lack of belief in yourself. It’s not creating an intentional and well-developed plan for success and the future. It’s not having the confidence to execute your plan. It’s not developing the relationships necessary to succeed (Together Everyone Achieves More). It’s not having the courage to fail along the way.” 
Tony Dickinson, vice president of marketing, Wells Fargo, Class of 2012

“You don’t have enough gray hair! Des Moines has not traditionally been a ‘young professional’ community, but that is changing. Many of our greatest business leaders have worked up the ladder within the same company or industry since they started in the workforce. Talent is easily picked up on, but that doesn’t mean there is a C-level job open for you right now. Be patient, and realize the things you learn while you climb the ladder will make you an even better leader once the corner office comes open. Your time will come, too. Embrace the journey.”
Creighton Cox, president, C2 Policy Advocates Inc., Class of 2010

“I believe a lot of young people are risk-averse. Whether that stems from helicopter parents or coming of age during the Great Recession, we are a generation that prioritizes stability. There is certainly a great deal of wisdom in seeking consistency; however, every mentor I have points out that their greatest growth and rewards came when they took a significant risk.”
Jonathan Brendemuehl, corporate communications manager, Bankers Trust Co., Class of 2013

Q3: Which character traits, habits or behaviors hold YPs back in their professional lives? Explain why.

“There are many successful young professionals in our region. We have many sharp, driven YPs here, but part of our success is that attracting, developing and retaining young talent is part of the Greater Des Moines culture and the work many do to cultivate that energy. Therefore, No. 1, seize Des Moines. Live here. Build your career here. Create a name and a brand for yourself in Greater Des Moines.” 
Tiffany Tauscheck, chief communications officer, Greater Des Moines Partnership, Class of 2008

“Despite ubiquitous advice on the value of professional mentors, I know something I’ve struggled with and seen in others is a reluctance to engage a potential mentor one looks up to. I think this is largely because younger professionals have a level of sensitivity about the busy lives and schedules of higher-level, experienced potential mentors. The truth is the folks we all look up to the most are often the most willing to give of their time and advice. Ask.”
Brent Willett, executive director, Iowa Cultivation Corridor, Class of 2015

“In a global company, YPs who are not willing to learn new tasks, be inclusive of others and listen to different perspectives might limit their professional success. These behaviors will quickly make colleagues and leaders not want to or enjoy working with you. It is important to be a good collaborator and foster a culture of inclusion to drive performance and innovation to its full potential.”
Claudia Schabel, organizational vibrancy champion, DuPont Pioneer, Class of 2008

Q4: Some of you may have found yourself in a leadership position at a young age, managing employees with much more experience. What’s one piece of advice you can give to other young leaders in similar positions?

“While I have not managed others in my employment, I have served and continue serving as a leader in volunteer organizations. I have found the best advice I have received is to listen more than you talk and to be aware of each member on the team. I have noticed those who share their input less frequently are often those most respected in an organization, team or group.” 
Andrea Woodard, public policy manager, Greater Des Moines Partnership, Class of 2014

“Acknowledge the situation. For my first management job, I had one employee who was with the company for 21 years and another who was there more than 10. I was something like 24 years old at the time. After a couple weeks of awkward tiptoeing around the subject, I brought it up in a staff meeting. I said to them, “Hey, I know this is kind of a different situation, but I want you to know how much I value your experience with us, particularly during this time of transition.” I made sure not to promise nothing was changing, but I acknowledged the experience the staff brought to the mission early. That is key to gaining their buy-in later.”
Brent Willett, executive director, Iowa Cultivation Corridor, Class of 2015

“Respect is not gained upon landing a managerial title. It takes time to foster relationships and earn the respect from team members, in particular veteran members of the team. In a previous role, I was hired to oversee a team member who was on the team longer than I had been alive. We learned to respect each other’s talents and contributions to the team as a whole. That person was a mentor to me as much I was to them. I learned it is important to realize you can learn from anyone, regardless of age or position in an organization.” 
Tiffany Tauscheck, chief communications officer, Greater Des Moines Partnership, Class of 2008

Q5: The topic of professional attire and what is or is not appropriate is often debated. Is appearance really that important? Any tips or advice you can give young professionals?

“While appearance is not everything, it plays a role in communicating who you are and what you care about. Dressing appropriately indicates respect for the people you encounter or that you understand the nature of the event you are attending. The right attire can help instill confidence in those who see you, especially in a younger worker. Attire can show your creativity if that is important for your job. In some situations having a “fun” detail in your outfit can put people at ease. In other situations, blending into the background is more appropriate.”
Lori Chesser, senior shareholder, Davis Brown Law Firm, Class of 2002

“You only have one chance to make a good first impression. From a firm handshake to good eye contact to dressing appropriately, you need to make it count. However, I think it is important to put your own personal flare into what you wear. If you like color, wear it! Don’t shy away from something because it’s unique; just make sure you aren’t too revealing. That’s when the appropriateness seems to get debated.”
Erin Bemis, fund development and marketing manager, Chrysalis Foundation, Class of 2013

“Appearance is absolutely important. However, what the particular appearance is depends on the person. The most critical question to ask yourself is whether or not it makes you feel more comfortable and confident, as well as matching the brand you are trying to create. Tie or no tie, suit or no suit, jeans or slacks, dress shirt or polo — I truly don’t think that matters as long as you are projecting the image you want. … As long as you’re not dressed like a complete slob, my level of respect and trust for you comes from your personality and our interactions with each other.”
Mike Banasiak, certified financial planner, Legacy Financial Group, Class of 2014

Q6: How do you achieve your career goals yet still maintain a personal/professional life balance? Or is there no such thing? Explain how or why.

“A life/work balance is tough, and is something I continually strive to maintain. One piece of advice I can offer is to never reschedule a vacation around a deadline. There will always be a deadline. … Taking time off doesn’t mean you can’t be awesome at your job. Rest and time away often make people better at their jobs. Be awesome at your job when you are there, then leave and be awesome at your personal life too.”
Naura Heiman Godar, architect, RDG Planning & Design, Class of 2012

“I do believe there is such a thing, but it is rarely an equal split, especially in the early years of your career when your focus is on professional growth. You’re trying hard to gain experience and build your brand … but your focus tends to shift into more personal growth. This path is not always the case, and more than likely, your balance will constantly ebb and flow. I think the most important things are to keep true to your passions and find a strong support system. Your passions are what will help keep you motivated and inspired. Your support system, whether it’s family, friends or both, will keep you grounded and focused.”
Mike Banasiak, certified financial planner, Legacy Financial Group, Class of 2014

“What my goals were in my 20s aren’t what they are now in my 30s. When some think about New Year’s resolutions, I start thinking about what success looks like to me in the new year and how I will achieve it. This yearly review helps me maintain personal/professional balance as well as keep my goals in the forefront. Each week, I make a plan that shows all my “buckets” — Chrysalis, Junior League, family, home and myself. I map out the week to make sure I’m focused and balanced. It is time-consuming, but it keeps all my buckets full.”
Erin Bemis, fund development and marketing manager, Chrysalis Foundation, Class of 2013

Q7: What is some advice you would give to create valuable relationships with the people you meet?

“Honestly, I’m not a big fan of the term “networking.” I don’t think you can put a defined process to meeting people. Networking isn’t about just collecting contacts. It’s about building relationships with the people in your business, your community and your life. … Relationships that are meaningful over time are developed over time. I think it’s great to connect with others, but the people that you surround yourself with to be successful are going to be those you develop a relationship with.”
Mara White, director of public relations, Flynn Wright, Class of 2006

“Ask thoughtful questions and listen. Listen three times as much as you talk, especially when you first meet people. Remember that we all love to talk about ourselves first. Then, follow up and remain in touch. People appreciate regular, positive contact. Your goal should be to meet people and get them to like you. Once someone likes you, work to earn their trust. When you have developed trust, you have nurtured a valuable, long-term relationship. It becomes easier to do every time that you try it.”
Ben Hildebrandt, business development director, Belin McCormick P.C., Class of 2000

“Networking is not easy, but don’t make it more difficult than it has to be. … I typically look for people I already know in the crowd and leverage that relationship to meet someone new or enter a group conversation. The easiest question is “What do you do, and who do you work for?” but try and look for a more personal connection. Where did they grow up? What do they do for fun outside of work? Do they have kids? These questions will help spark a conversation about what they are passionate about and also help you remember them in the future.”
Tyler Dingel, first vice president, CBRE|Hubbell Commercial, Class of 2010

Q8: What is the best advice you received throughout your career that you still follow today? How do you apply it to your career?

“Everyone would agree we should learn from our shortcomings or failures; but some of the best advice I received was almost missed by me. During a celebratory moment after a successful venture, I was asked by a mentor of mine “What did you learn?” It seemed an odd time to ask the question (during a triumphant moment), and the abruptness of the question made me aware that every experience is a learning experience. Since then, I go into any new experience with goals of what I want to learn, and am mindful following the event of what I learned. We always must be learning to better ourselves.”
Chad Airhart, Dallas County recorder, Class of 2009

“The best advice I can offer a young professional is to either remain intellectually curious or uncork your intellectual curiosity. Stoking your intellectual curiosity is the basis for continual learning. Commit to learning at all times. I have found opportunities for success increase exponentially when you commit to building your knowledge base in varied areas.”
Desmund Adams, principal, BFGG Holdings LLC, Class of 2013

“So much depends on reputation — guard it with your life. This is one of author Robert Greene’s “48 Laws of Power.” Nearly 20 years ago, my employer and mentor told me to be a bridge to connect people with one another and connect people with opportunities. I still work at this every day. It has made my career. Your reputation is one of the few things you truly own. Decide what you want to be known for. Select a handful of mentors to guide you. Practice every day. Become known as being among the very best.”
Ben Hildebrandt, business development director, Belin McCormick P.C., Class of 2000

Q9: What steps are you taking today to ensure you continue to grow and develop as a leader?

“It’s so important to always strive to be better. Even after you receive some recognition or commendation, there’s always room to grow. Saying “yes” to opportunities you’re passionate about, meeting with people who inspire you, asking for feedback from your peers — those are all great ways to develop yourself into a better person and better leader.”
Emilee Richardson, marketing and communications manager, Science Center of Iowa, Class of 2015

“Someone once told me, “Show me your calendar, and I’ll show you your priorities.” The statement made a lasting impression on me, and true to the lesson learned, I now arrange my calendar to allow me to more easily pursue my priorities, including my priority to actively meet and connect with motivated and passionate individuals on a weekly basis. … This has not only helped me grow professionally, but on a personal level, it has truly opened my eyes — and doors — to new leadership lessons, roles and opportunities.”
Matt McKinney, attorney, BrownWinick Law Firm, Class of 2014

“I continue to stretch myself by taking on new challenges and leadership opportunities, both in the community and on the job. Since becoming a Forty, I have embraced opportunities to lead and have not shied away or feared the chance to step out of my comfort zone. I have accepted leadership roles on boards, fundraising campaigns and company projects. Each experience has provided new learnings and perspective that help fuel my growth and development.”
Michael Sadler, assistant vice president, CenturyLink, Class of 2005

Q10: What have you learned that you wish you knew at the start of your career? Why?

“Stay balanced. Work hard and play hard. Life is short and you can work to death. Life is a journey and it needs to be lived as we go. Live it with passion, make every day the best it can be. … Learn from your competition by what they do differently and improve from it. You can’t worry about what others are doing but continue to set the standard and lead the way while they continue to try to be you.”
Kimberly Baeth, president, Golden Openings Inc., Class of 2010

“Years ago when starting my career, I played it safe and placed a greater importance on whether  people liked me. While we all want to be liked, it is more important to be respected by living a life in which you are true to yourself and you do not compromise your integrity by desiring a false sense of security. Secondly, life has taught me mistakes and adversity are not a sign of failure. They provide you with opportunities to learn and to dig deep for the strength that you sometimes think you do not have.”
Renee Hardman, owner/consultant, Hardman Consulting LLC, Class of 2000

“I wish I knew when I started my career how open and generous our local leaders (business, community, political, etc.) are in sharing their time and sitting down over a cup of coffee.  Whether meeting to simply connect and discuss their leadership roles, the community in general, or a specific matter, I am continually surprised and grateful for how giving and accessible our community’s leaders make themselves.”
Matt McKinney, attorney, BrownWinick Law Firm, Class of 2014

If there is one final thing you could say to today’s young professionals, what would it be?

“Fail. You’ll learn far more from your failures than you ever will from your success. Failing means you’ve had the courage to compete and you’re willing to take risks.”
Tony Dickinson, vice president of marketing, Wells Fargo, Class of 2012

“Put down the smartphone, get away from the keyboard and pick up a pen. The most impactful communication I receive is a personal, handwritten note. It can be brief or long, but it sticks out from every other way of communicating. It takes extra time — and often a little extra thought —  but it will be remembered and appreciated. It’s something I definitely need to do more, too.”
Creighton Cox, president, C2 Policy Advocates Inc., Class of 2010

“Be firm with your superiors about your interests and expectations for advancement, but be patient and be reasonable. Understand workforce culture is undergoing a spectacular sea change revolution — from the gig economy to the elimination of PTO — and many of our employers are working as fast as possible to accommodate the changes while somehow finding a way to remain profitable and purposeful. Be a contributor on the journey, and you’ll be rewarded.”
Brent Willett, executive director, Iowa Cultivation Corridor, Class of 2015

“Ask questions. You’re not supposed to know everything yet. Plus, asking questions allows you to learn faster and builds rapport with more senior co-workers.”
Naura Heiman Godar, architect, RDG Planning & Design, Class of 2012

“Take the long view. This town, like most, is all about relationships. Every job I have accepted, after the very first, was because someone recommended me. Relationships matter here. Name a respected local leader — in any field — and he or she has worked on their relationships and their career over years and, many times, over decades.”
Ben Hildebrandt, business development director, Belin McCormick P.C., Class of 2000

“The true measure of success is what you have done for others. Life is about making a positive and impactful difference in the community and in the life of others. Give of your time, talent and treasure without expecting anything in return.” 
Renee Hardman, owner/consultant, Hardman Consulting LLC, Class of 2000

“Do what you love, not what you think will make money, pay the bills or what looks fun. If it is not fun to you, you shouldn’t be doing it. Why you do what you do is the most important factor in your career path. People buy why you do something, not what or how you do it. That is how successful business works.”
Kimberly Baeth, president, Golden Openings Inc., Class of 2010

“Learn as much as you can about what makes a good leader. Learn from many different people and perspectives. Mix things up, sort through your learnings, redefine leadership and find your own leadership style.”
Claudia Schabel, organizational vibrancy champion, DuPont Pioneer, Class of 2008

“Be authentic. We receive hundreds of resumes a year, and what we’re looking for is someone who naturally fits our business and our awesome team — someone who has a passion for our industry and is eager to do the work we do for our clients. What we are not looking for is someone who is trying to be something or someone they are not.” 
Mara White, director of public relations, Flynn Wright, Class of 2006

“You are at the starting line of a marathon. It is not a sprint, and there are no shortcuts. Set both short-term and long-term goals for yourself and define what success means to you.”
Tyler Dingel, first vice president, CBRE|Hubbell Commercial, Class of 2010